If there are layoffs can employees who have been with the employer the longest be terminated until after all newer employees are let go?

July 1, 2014 by Karen Hill | Filed Under: Law

The practice of rewarding long-term employees who have worked for the employer for a longer period of time is just not followed in today’s economy, unless it is specified in a union or employment contract.

In most downsizings, where the goal is to reduce the employer’s expenses, the easiest way is to reduce expenses is to get rid of the long-term employees, who often have the largest salaries. The employer is not legally required to provide to long-term employees any loyalty or any benefits based on seniority.